U.S. patent application number 16/073240 was filed with the patent office on 2019-01-31 for air-conditioning device.
This patent application is currently assigned to DAIKIN INDUSTRIES, LTD.. The applicant listed for this patent is DAIKIN INDUSTRIES, LTD.. Invention is credited to Toshimichi NAKAYAMA, Yoshiteru NOUCHI, Kousuke SHIOHAMA, Ryouta SUHARA.
Application Number | 20190032980 16/073240 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 59686126 |
Filed Date | 2019-01-31 |
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United States Patent
Application |
20190032980 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
NAKAYAMA; Toshimichi ; et
al. |
January 31, 2019 |
AIR-CONDITIONING DEVICE
Abstract
An air-conditioning device includes: a suction air temperature
sensor provided in an indoor unit; a wireless temperature sensor
unit separate from the indoor unit; an abnormal condition
determining section determining whether or not the wireless
temperature sensor unit is in an abnormal condition; an index
setting section setting a temperature index value; and a controller
controlling operation of the air-conditioning device based on the
set temperature index value. While the abnormal condition
determining section determines that the wireless temperature sensor
unit is in the abnormal condition, the index setting section
determines a measurement value of the suction air temperature
sensor to be the temperature index value.
Inventors: |
NAKAYAMA; Toshimichi;
(Osaka-shi, Osaka, JP) ; NOUCHI; Yoshiteru;
(Osaka-shi, Osaka, JP) ; SHIOHAMA; Kousuke;
(Osaka-shi, Osaka, JP) ; SUHARA; Ryouta;
(Osaka-shi, Osaka, JP) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
DAIKIN INDUSTRIES, LTD. |
Osaka-shi, Osaka |
|
JP |
|
|
Assignee: |
DAIKIN INDUSTRIES, LTD.
Osaka-shi, Osaka
JP
|
Family ID: |
59686126 |
Appl. No.: |
16/073240 |
Filed: |
January 18, 2017 |
PCT Filed: |
January 18, 2017 |
PCT NO: |
PCT/JP2017/001495 |
371 Date: |
July 26, 2018 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
F24F 2110/12 20180101;
F25B 2700/2103 20130101; F25B 2700/2106 20130101; F24F 11/49
20180101; F25B 49/005 20130101; F25B 2313/0314 20130101; F25B
2313/0315 20130101; F24F 2110/10 20180101; F25B 2700/2104 20130101;
F24F 11/38 20180101; F24F 11/89 20180101; F24F 11/56 20180101 |
International
Class: |
F25B 49/00 20060101
F25B049/00; F24F 11/89 20060101 F24F011/89; F24F 11/38 20060101
F24F011/38; F24F 11/49 20060101 F24F011/49 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Feb 22, 2016 |
JP |
2016-031432 |
Claims
1.-6. (canceled)
7. An air-conditioning device conditioning air in an indoor space,
the device comprising: an indoor unit drawing indoor air, adjusting
a temperature of the indoor air drawn, and expelling the indoor air
into the indoor space; a suction air temperature sensor provided in
the indoor unit to measure the temperature of the indoor air drawn
into the indoor unit; a wireless temperature sensor unit separate
from the indoor unit, the wireless temperature sensor unit
including an ambient temperature sensor and a transmitter, the
ambient temperature sensor measuring an ambient temperature, the
transmitter transmitting a signal of a measurement value of the
ambient temperature sensor by radio; a receiving section receiving
the signal transmitted by the transmitter; an abnormal condition
determining section determining whether or not the wireless
temperature sensor unit is in an abnormal condition; an index
setting section setting a temperature index value serving as an
index of indoor temperature; and a controller controlling operation
of the air-conditioning device based on the temperature index value
set by the index setting section, wherein while the abnormal
condition determining section determines that the wireless
temperature sensor unit is in the abnormal condition, the index
setting section determines a measurement value of the suction air
temperature sensor to be the temperature index value, and the
abnormal condition determining section is configured to, if the
measurement value of the suction air temperature sensor is less
than or equal to a predetermined first temperature threshold or
greater than or equal to a predetermined second temperature
threshold greater than the first temperature threshold, determine
that the wireless temperature sensor unit is in the abnormal
condition.
8. The air-conditioning device of claim 7, wherein while the
abnormal condition determining section determines that the wireless
temperature sensor unit is not in the abnormal condition, the index
setting section determines the measurement value of the ambient
temperature sensor to be the temperature index value.
9. The air-conditioning device of claim 7, wherein the abnormal
condition determining section is configured to, if an absolute
value of a difference between the measurement value of the suction
air temperature sensor and the measurement value of the ambient
temperature sensor is greater than or equal to a predetermined
temperature difference threshold, determine that the wireless
temperature sensor unit is in the abnormal condition.
10. The air-conditioning device of claim 7, wherein the abnormal
condition determining section is configured to, if the receiving
section has not received the signal from the wireless temperature
sensor unit yet, determine that the wireless temperature sensor
unit is in the abnormal condition.
11. The air-conditioning device of claim 7, further comprising: a
receiver unit including the receiving section, the abnormal
condition determining section, and the index setting section, the
receiver unit being housed in the indoor unit.
12. The air-conditioning device of claim 8, wherein the abnormal
condition determining section is configured to, if an absolute
value of a difference between the measurement value of the suction
air temperature sensor and the measurement value of the ambient
temperature sensor is greater than or equal to a predetermined
temperature difference threshold, determine that the wireless
temperature sensor unit is in the abnormal condition.
13. The air-conditioning device of claim 8, wherein the abnormal
condition determining section is configured to, if the receiving
section has not received the signal from the wireless temperature
sensor unit yet, determine that the wireless temperature sensor
unit is in the abnormal condition.
14. The air-conditioning device of claim 8, further comprising: a
receiver unit including the receiving section, the abnormal
condition determining section, and the index setting section, the
receiver unit being housed in the indoor unit.
15. The air-conditioning device of claim 9, wherein the abnormal
condition determining section is configured to, if the receiving
section has not received the signal from the wireless temperature
sensor unit yet, determine that the wireless temperature sensor
unit is in the abnormal condition.
16. The air-conditioning device of claim 9, further comprising: a
receiver unit including the receiving section, the abnormal
condition determining section, and the index setting section, the
receiver unit being housed in the indoor unit.
17. The air-conditioning device of claim 10, further comprising: a
receiver unit including the receiving section, the abnormal
condition determining section, and the index setting section, the
receiver unit being housed in the indoor unit.
18. The air-conditioning device of claim 12, wherein the abnormal
condition determining section is configured to, if the receiving
section has not received the signal from the wireless temperature
sensor unit yet, determine that the wireless temperature sensor
unit is in the abnormal condition.
19. The air-conditioning device of claim 12, further comprising: a
receiver unit including the receiving section, the abnormal
condition determining section, and the index setting section, the
receiver unit being housed in the indoor unit.
20. The air-conditioning device of claim 13, further comprising: a
receiver unit including the receiving section, the abnormal
condition determining section, and the index setting section, the
receiver unit being housed in the indoor unit.
21. The air-conditioning device of claim 15, further comprising: a
receiver unit including the receiving section, the abnormal
condition determining section, and the index setting section, the
receiver unit being housed in the indoor unit.
22. The air-conditioning device of claim 18, further comprising: a
receiver unit including the receiving section, the abnormal
condition determining section, and the index setting section, the
receiver unit being housed in the indoor unit.
Description
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0001] The present invention relates to an air-conditioning
device.
BACKGROUND ART
[0002] An air-conditioning device conditioning air in an indoor
space has been known (see, for example, Patent Document 1). The
air-conditioning device includes an outdoor unit and an indoor unit
which are connected together through pipes. Operation of the
air-conditioning device is controlled by a controller. Patent
Document 2 discloses the provision of a suction air temperature
sensor that is used to measure the temperature of air taken into
the indoor unit.
CITATION LIST
Patent Document
[0003] Patent Document 1: Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication
No. 2011-099612
[0004] Patent Document 2: Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication
No. 2014-137161
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
Technical Problem
[0005] In addition to the suction air temperature sensor, an
ambient temperature sensor that measures an ambient temperature may
be provided at an optional location in an indoor space to obtain
information on the air temperature at the optional location. In
this case, in order to be able to be installed at an optional
location, the ambient temperature sensor suitably forms a portable
wireless temperature sensor unit together with a transmitter
capable of transmitting a signal of the measured value by
radio.
[0006] The controller controls operation of the air-conditioning
device, based on measurement values of the suction air temperature
sensor and the ambient temperature sensor, so that the indoor
temperature approaches, for example, a predetermined target
temperature. In this case, the wireless temperature sensor unit may
be used while being installed near a person present in the room. In
such a situation, the measurement value of the ambient temperature
sensor is suitably used to control operation of the
air-conditioning device to improve comfort.
[0007] However, the wireless temperature sensor unit is not always
used in an appropriate manner. For example, if the wireless
temperature sensor unit is installed near any other heater during a
heating operation, the measurement value of the ambient temperature
sensor is higher than the actual indoor temperature. Such a
situation is an example of a condition where the wireless
temperature sensor unit fails to function normally. This condition
is hereinafter referred to as a condition where "the wireless
temperature sensor unit is in an abnormal condition." If the
measurement value of the ambient temperature sensor is used to
control operation of the air-conditioning device while the wireless
temperature sensor unit is in an abnormal condition, air in the
entire indoor space may be prevented from being appropriately
conditioned. For example, in the foregoing case, the measurement
value of the ambient temperature sensor is higher than the
temperature of the air in the entire indoor space. This allows the
air in the entire indoor space to be heated only to a temperature
lower than a target temperature even if a heating operation is
performed based on the measurement value. In addition, it is also
assumed that the wireless temperature sensor unit may fail to
transmit a signal of the measurement value of the ambient
temperature sensor due to a dead battery. In this case, the
air-conditioning device may be uncontrollable.
[0008] In view of the foregoing background, it is therefore an
object of the present invention to allow air at an optional
location in an indoor space to be conditioned, and to allow air in
the entire indoor space to be appropriately conditioned.
Solution to the Problem
[0009] A first aspect of the present disclosure is directed to an
air-conditioning device (10) conditioning air in an indoor space
(500). The device includes: an indoor unit (12) drawing indoor air,
adjusting a temperature of the indoor air drawn, and expelling the
indoor air into the indoor space (500); a suction air temperature
sensor (61) provided in the indoor unit (12) to measure the
temperature of the indoor air drawn into the indoor unit (12); a
wireless temperature sensor unit (13) separate from the indoor unit
(12), the wireless temperature sensor unit (13) including an
ambient temperature sensor (13b) and a transmitter (13c), the
ambient temperature sensor (13b) measuring an ambient temperature,
the transmitter (13c) transmitting a signal of a measurement value
(Tm2) of the ambient temperature sensor (13b) by radio; a receiving
section (63a) receiving the signal transmitted by the transmitter
(13c); an abnormal condition determining section (63b) determining
whether or not the wireless temperature sensor unit (13) is in an
abnormal condition; an index setting section (63c) setting a
temperature index value serving as an index of indoor temperature;
and a controller (28, 66) controlling operation of the
air-conditioning device (10) based on the temperature index value
set by the index setting section (63c). While the abnormal
condition determining section (63b) determines that the wireless
temperature sensor unit (13) is in the abnormal condition, the
index setting section (63c) determines a measurement value (Tm1) of
the suction air temperature sensor (61) to be the temperature index
value.
[0010] According to the first aspect, the wireless temperature
sensor unit (13) is used to measure the air temperature at an
optional location in the indoor space (500), and the measurement
value (Tm2) is used to control operation of the air-conditioning
device (10). This allows air at the optional location in the indoor
space (500) to be conditioned. On the other hand, if the wireless
temperature sensor unit (13) is in the abnormal condition,
controlling the operation of the air-conditioning device (10) based
on the measurement value (Tm2) of the ambient temperature sensor
(13b) may prevent air in the entire indoor space (500) from being
appropriately conditioned as described above. To address this
problem, in the first aspect, if the wireless temperature sensor
unit (13) is in the abnormal condition, the operation of the
air-conditioning device (10) is controlled based on the measurement
value (Tm1) of the suction air temperature sensor (61). This allows
the air in the entire indoor space (500) to be appropriately
conditioned even if the wireless temperature sensor unit (13) is in
the abnormal condition.
[0011] The second aspect of the present disclosure is an embodiment
of the first aspect. In the second aspect, while the abnormal
condition determining section (63b) determines that the wireless
temperature sensor unit (13) is not in the abnormal condition, the
index setting section (63c) determines the measurement value (Tm2)
of the ambient temperature sensor (13b) to be the temperature index
value.
[0012] Here, the wireless temperature sensor unit (13) is highly
likely to be arranged near a person in the room. That is why using
the measurement value (Tm2) of the ambient temperature sensor (13b)
to control the operation of the air-conditioning device (10) is
highly likely to allow the person in the room to feel more
comfortable than using the measurement value (Tm1) of the suction
air temperature sensor (61). Thus, in the second aspect, if the
wireless temperature sensor unit (13) is not in the abnormal
condition, the measurement value (Tm2) of the ambient temperature
sensor (13b) is used to control the operation of the
air-conditioning device (10).
[0013] A third aspect of the present disclosure is an embodiment of
the first or second aspect. In the third aspect, the abnormal
condition determining section (63b) is configured to, if an
absolute value of a difference between the measurement value (Tm1)
of the suction air temperature sensor (61) and the measurement
value (Tm2) of the ambient temperature sensor (13b) is greater than
or equal to a predetermined temperature difference threshold
(.DELTA.Tth), determine that the wireless temperature sensor unit
(13) is in the abnormal condition.
[0014] According to the third aspect, the suction air temperature
sensor (61) measures the temperature of air actually drawn by the
indoor unit (12). That is why the measurement value (Tm1) of the
suction air temperature sensor (61) is less likely to differ
significantly from the actual room temperature. Meanwhile, the
wireless temperature sensor unit (13) may be arranged near any
other heater, in the sunshine near a window, or at any other
similar location. In this case, the measurement value (Tm2) of the
ambient temperature sensor (13b) differs significantly from the
actual room temperature. Thus, if the measurement value (Tm1) of
the suction air temperature sensor (61) is significantly different
from the measurement value (Tm2) of the ambient temperature sensor
(13b), a determination is made that the wireless temperature sensor
unit (13) is in the abnormal condition, and the measurement value
(Tm1) of the suction air temperature sensor (61) is thus used to
control the operation of the air-conditioning device (10). This
allows air in the entire indoor space (500) to be more
appropriately conditioned.
[0015] A fourth aspect of the present disclosure is an embodiment
of any one of the first to third aspects. In the fourth aspect, the
abnormal condition determining section (63b) is configured to, if
the measurement value (Tm1) of the suction air temperature sensor
(61) is less than or equal to a predetermined first temperature
threshold (Tth1) or greater than or equal to a predetermined second
temperature threshold (Tth2) greater than the first temperature
threshold (Tth1), determine that the wireless temperature sensor
unit (13) is in the abnormal condition.
[0016] According to the fourth aspect, if the measurement value
(Tm1) of the suction air temperature sensor (61) is excessively low
or high, the abnormal condition determining section (63b)
determines that the wireless temperature sensor unit (13) is in the
abnormal condition. For example, if the wireless temperature sensor
unit (13) is installed at a location having a temperature
significantly different from the average air temperature in the
entire indoor space (500), the measurement value (Tm2) of the
ambient temperature sensor (13b) is significantly different from
the average air temperature in the entire indoor space (500). If,
in this state, air is conditioned based on the measurement value
(Tm2) of the ambient temperature sensor (13b), the temperature of
air in the entire indoor space (500) becomes excessively low or
high. This results in that the measurement value (Tm1) of the
suction air temperature sensor (61) becomes excessively low or
high. In the fourth aspect, in such a case, a determination is made
that the wireless temperature sensor unit (13) is in the abnormal
condition, and the measurement value (Tm1) of the suction air
temperature sensor (61) is thus used to control the operation of
the air-conditioning device (10). This allows air in the entire
indoor space (500) to be more appropriately conditioned.
[0017] If the temperature of air in the entire indoor space (500)
is excessively low or high, controlling the operation of the
air-conditioning device (10) based on the measurement value (Tm2)
of the ambient temperature sensor (13b) of the wireless temperature
sensor unit (13) in the abnormal condition may cause an excessive
load to be applied to components of the air-conditioning device
(10). For example, if the room temperature in the indoor space
(500) is excessively high while the measurement value (Tm2) of the
ambient temperature sensor (13b) is low, controlling the operation
of the air-conditioning device (10) based on the measurement value
(Tm2) causes an excessive load to be applied to the components of
the air-conditioning device (10) in order to further increase the
heating capacity of the air-conditioning device (10). Then, an
excessive load continuously applied to the components of the
air-conditioning device (10) may lead to a breakdown in the
air-conditioning device (10). To address this problem, in the
fourth aspect, if the air temperature in the entire indoor space
(500) is excessively low or high, the measurement value (Tm1) of
the suction air temperature sensor (61) is used to control the
operation of the air-conditioning device (10). This prevents an
excessive load from being applied to the components of the
air-conditioning device (10), and thus prevents the
air-conditioning device (10) from being broken.
[0018] A fifth aspect of the present disclosure is an embodiment of
any one of the first to fourth aspects. In the fifth aspect, the
abnormal condition determining section (63b) is configured to, if
the receiving section (63a) has not received the signal from the
wireless temperature sensor unit (13) yet, determine that the
wireless temperature sensor unit (13) is in the abnormal
condition.
[0019] According to the fifth aspect, if no signal from the
wireless temperature sensor unit (13) is recognized, the
measurement value (Tm1) of the suction air temperature sensor (61)
is used to control the operation of the air-conditioning device
(10). This allows air in the entire indoor space (500) to be more
appropriately conditioned.
[0020] A sixth aspect of the present disclosure is an embodiment of
any one of the first to fifth aspects. In the sixth aspect, the
air-conditioning device further includes: a receiver unit (63)
including the receiving section (63a), the abnormal condition
determining section (63b), and the index setting section (63c), the
receiver unit (63) being housed in the indoor unit (12).
[0021] According to the sixth aspect, the receiving section (63a),
the abnormal condition determining section (63b), and the index
setting section (63c) are provided in the same unit (i.e., the
receiver unit (63)).
ADVANTAGES OF THE INVENTION
[0022] According to an aspect of the present disclosure, a wireless
temperature sensor unit (13) is used to condition air at an
optional location in an indoor space (500). Additionally, even if
the wireless temperature sensor unit (13) is in an abnormal
condition, air in the entire indoor space (500) can be
appropriately conditioned.
[0023] According to the second aspect, a measurement value (Tm2) of
an ambient temperature sensor (13b) of the wireless temperature
sensor unit (13) that is highly likely to be arranged near a person
in the room is used to control operation of an air-conditioning
device (10). This can improve the comfort of the person in the
room.
[0024] According to the third to fifth aspects, air in the entire
indoor space (500) can be more appropriately conditioned. Moreover,
according to the fourth aspect, the air-conditioning device (10)
can be prevented from being broken.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0025] FIG. 1 is a refrigerant circuit diagram showing a general
configuration of an air-conditioning device according to an
embodiment.
[0026] FIG. 2 schematically shows how the air-conditioning device
of the embodiment is installed.
[0027] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of an indoor unit viewed
obliquely from below.
[0028] FIG. 4 schematically shows configurations of components of
the air-conditioning device.
[0029] FIG. 5 is a state transition diagram showing how an abnormal
condition determining section determines a condition of a wireless
temperature sensor unit.
DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS
[0030] Embodiments of the present invention will be described in
detail with reference to the drawings. The embodiment described
below is merely an exemplary one in nature, and is not intended to
limit the scope, applications, or use of the invention.
Configuration of Air-conditioning Device
[0031] As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, an air-conditioning device (10)
of this embodiment includes an outdoor unit (11), an indoor unit
(12), and a wireless temperature sensor unit (13). The outdoor unit
(11) and the indoor unit (12) are connected together through pipes
to form a refrigerant circuit (20), which performs a vapor
compression refrigeration cycle.
[0032] The outdoor unit (11) includes a compressor (21), a four-way
switching valve (22), an outdoor heat exchanger (23), an outdoor
fan (24), an expansion valve (25), and an outdoor controller (28).
The outdoor unit (11) is disposed outdoors as shown in FIG. 2. The
air-conditioning device (10) is configured such that switching the
four-way switching valve (22) allows the direction of flow of a
refrigerant in the refrigerant circuit (20) to be changed
reversibly.
[0033] The indoor unit (12) includes an indoor heat exchanger (26)
and an indoor fan (27). As shown in FIG. 2, the indoor unit (12) is
embedded in an opening of an indoor ceiling. That is to say, the
indoor unit (12) of this embodiment is configured as a so-called
ceiling-embedded indoor unit. A configuration of the indoor unit
(12) will be described below in detail. The compressor (21) and the
indoor fan (27) constitute components.
[0034] The wireless temperature sensor unit (13) is separate from
the indoor unit (12), and can be installed at an optional location
in an indoor space (500) (e.g., near a person present in the indoor
space (500)) as shown in FIG. 2. The wireless temperature sensor
unit (13) includes a unit case (13a), an ambient temperature sensor
(13b), and a transmitter (13c). The ambient temperature sensor
(13b) is disposed in the unit case (13a) to measure an ambient
temperature. The transmitter (13c) is disposed in the unit case
(13a) to transmit, by radio, a signal of a measurement value (Tm2)
of the ambient temperature sensor (13b) to a receiver unit (63)
described below.
[0035] The transmitter (13c) of the wireless temperature sensor
unit (13) generates a signal including at least the measurement
value (Tm2) of the ambient temperature sensor (13b), and transmits
the generated signal by radio. The transmitter (13c) is configured
to communicate with the receiver unit (63) once every predetermined
time period (e.g., once every 10 seconds). The transmitter (13c) is
configured so as to be prevented from transmitting the signal of
the measurement value (Tm2) of the ambient temperature sensor (13b)
to the receiver unit (63) if the difference between the temperature
transmitted last time and the currently detected temperature is
small (e.g., if the difference is 0.05.degree. C. or less). The
wireless temperature sensor unit (13) is configured to, when the
remaining power of a built-in battery decreases to a low level,
stop the transmission of the measurement value (Tm2) of the ambient
temperature sensor (13b) and allow a built-in LED (not shown) to
blink.
Configuration of Indoor Unit
[0036] As shown in FIGS. 1 to 3, the indoor unit (12) includes a
casing (30). The casing (30) is provided on a ceiling (501) of the
indoor space (500). The casing (30) is comprised of a casing body
(31) and a decorative panel (32). The casing (30) houses the indoor
fan (27) and the indoor heat exchanger (26). The casing (30)
further houses a suction air temperature sensor (61), the receiver
unit (63), and an indoor controller (66).
[0037] The casing body (31) is mounted by being inserted in an
opening in the ceiling (501) of the indoor space (500). The casing
body (31) has a generally rectangular parallelepiped box-like shape
with its lower end open.
[0038] The indoor fan (27) is a centrifugal blower which draws air
from below and expels the air radially outward. The indoor fan (27)
is arranged at the center in the casing body (31).
[0039] The indoor heat exchanger (26) is a so-called cross-fin-type
fin-and-tube heat exchanger. The air expelled by the indoor fan
(27) passes through the indoor heat exchanger (26). The indoor heat
exchanger (26) allows the air passing through the indoor heat
exchanger (26) to exchange heat with the refrigerant in the
refrigerant circuit.
[0040] The decorative panel (32) is a resinous member formed into a
thick rectangular plate-like shape. A lower portion of the
decorative panel (32) is in a square shape slightly larger than the
casing body (31). The decorative panel (32) is arranged to cover
the lower end of the casing body (31). The lower surface of the
decorative panel (32) serves as a lower surface of the casing (30)
and is exposed to the indoor space (500).
[0041] As illustrated in FIG. 3, the decorative panel (32) includes
a central section having a square inlet opening (33). The inlet
opening (33) passes through the decorative panel (32) in the
vertical direction and communicates with the interior of the casing
(30). The inlet opening (33) is provided with a grid-like intake
grille (41).
[0042] The decorative panel (32) includes a generally rectangular
annular air outlet (36) surrounding the inlet opening (33). As
illustrated in FIG. 3, the air outlet (36) is divided into four
main outlet openings (34) and four auxiliary outlet openings
(35).
[0043] The main outlet openings (34) are narrow openings disposed
along the four sides of the decorative panel (32). Each side of the
decorative panel (32) is provided with one main outlet opening.
Each of the auxiliary outlet openings (35) is in the shape of a
quarter of a circle. The auxiliary outlet openings (35) are
disposed at the four corners of the decorative panel (32). Each
corner of the decorative panel (32) is provided with one auxiliary
outlet opening.
[0044] As illustrated in FIG. 3, each main outlet opening (34) is
provided with an airflow direction adjusting flap (51). The airflow
direction adjusting flap (51) is a member for adjusting the
direction of supply airflow (i.e., the direction of flow of the
conditioned air coming from the main outlet openings (34)). The
airflow direction adjusting flap (51) changes the direction of
supply airflow upward and downward. That is, the airflow direction
adjusting flap (51) changes the direction of supply airflow such
that the angle between the direction of supply airflow and the
horizontal direction changes.
Suction Air Temperature Sensor
[0045] The suction air temperature sensor (61) is configured to
measure the temperature of indoor air drawn into the casing (30)
through the inlet opening (33). The suction air temperature sensor
(61) is connected to an input connector (63d) of the receiver unit
(63) through a sensor signal line (62) as shown in FIG. 4. The
input connector (63d) is configured as, for example, a
general-purpose connector.
Receiver Unit
[0046] As shown in FIG. 4, the receiver unit (63) includes the
input connector (63d), which is connected to the sensor signal line
(62) extending from the suction air temperature sensor (61) as
described above. The receiver unit (63) is configured to receive a
signal of a measurement value (Tm1) of the suction air temperature
sensor (61) from the suction air temperature sensor (61) by
wire.
[0047] As shown in FIG. 4, the receiver unit (63) includes a
receiving section (63a), an abnormal condition determining section
(63b), and an index setting section (63c). The receiver unit (63)
is configured to transmit a signal of a temperature index value set
by the index setting section (63c) to the indoor controller
(66).
[0048] As shown in FIG. 4, the receiver unit (63) includes an
output connector (63e), which is connected to one end of a control
signal line (64). The other end of the control signal line (64) is
connected to a common input connector (66a) of the indoor
controller (66).
[0049] The receiver unit (63) is connected to the indoor controller
(66) through a power line (65), and is further configured to
receive power from the indoor controller (66) through the power
line (65).
[0050] Note that the receiver unit (63) includes a plurality of
LEDs (not shown). The receiver unit (63) is configured to change
the mode in which the LEDs blink between a case where the wireless
temperature sensor unit (13) is broken and a case where the
receiver unit (63) is broken. The receiver unit (63) is configured
to, if the wireless temperature sensor unit (13) is broken, change
the mode in which the LEDs blink in accordance with which of the
battery and body of the wireless temperature sensor unit (13) needs
to be replaced. The receiver unit (63) is further configured to, if
the receiver unit (63) is broken, change the mode in which the LEDs
blink in accordance with the type of a component that needs to be
replaced.
Receiving Section
[0051] The receiving section (63a) is configured to receive a
signal of the measurement value (Tm2) of the ambient temperature
sensor (13b). This signal is transmitted from the wireless
temperature sensor unit (13) by radio. The receiving section (63a)
transfers the received signal of the measurement value (Tm2) of the
ambient temperature sensor (13b) to the abnormal condition
determining section (63b).
Abnormal Condition Determining Section
[0052] The abnormal condition determining section (63b) is
configured to determine whether or not the wireless temperature
sensor unit (13) is in an abnormal condition, based on the
measurement value (Tm1) of the suction air temperature sensor (61)
and the measurement value (Tm2) of the ambient temperature sensor
(13b).
[0053] Specifically, as shown in FIG. 5, if at least one of the
following three conditions (A) to (C) is satisfied while the
wireless temperature sensor unit (13) is in a normal condition, the
abnormal condition determining section (63b) determines that the
wireless temperature sensor unit (13) is in an abnormal condition.
Specifically, the condition (A) indicates a condition where the
absolute value of the difference between the measurement value
(Tm1) of the suction air temperature sensor (61) and the
measurement value (Tm2) of the ambient temperature sensor (13b) is
greater than or equal to a predetermined temperature difference
threshold (.DELTA.Tth). The condition (B) indicates a condition
where the measurement value (Tm1) of the suction air temperature
sensor (61) is less than or equal to a predetermined first
temperature threshold (Tth1) or greater than or equal to a
predetermined second temperature threshold (Tth2). However, the
second temperature threshold (Tth2) is greater than the first
temperature threshold (Tth1) (Tth1<Tth2). The condition (C)
indicates a condition where the receiver unit (63) has received no
signal from the wireless temperature sensor unit (13). On the other
hand, if none of the conditions (A) to (C) is satisfied, the
abnormal condition determining section (63b) determines that the
wireless temperature sensor unit (13) is in a normal condition.
[0054] In this case, when the condition (A) is satisfied, a
determination can be made that the wireless temperature sensor unit
(13) is in an abnormal condition for the following reason.
Specifically, the suction air temperature sensor (61) measures the
temperature of air actually drawn into the casing (30) of the
indoor unit (12). That is why the measurement value (Tm1) of the
suction air temperature sensor (61) is less likely to differ
significantly from the actual room temperature. Meanwhile, the
wireless temperature sensor unit (13) may be arranged near any
other heater, in the sunshine near a window, or at any other
similar location. In this case, the measurement value (Tm2) of the
ambient temperature sensor (13b) differs significantly from the
actual room temperature. Thus, if the measurement value (Tm1) of
the suction air temperature sensor (61) differs significantly from
the measurement value (Tm2) of the ambient temperature sensor
(13b), a determination can be made that the wireless temperature
sensor unit (13) is in an abnormal condition.
[0055] If the condition (B) is satisfied, a determination can be
made that the wireless temperature sensor unit (13) is in an
abnormal condition for the following reason. Specifically, for
example, if the wireless temperature sensor unit (13) is installed
at a location having a temperature significantly different from the
room temperature in the entire indoor space (500), the measurement
value (Tm2) of the ambient temperature sensor (13b) is
significantly different from the room temperature in the entire
indoor space (500). If, in this state, air is conditioned based on
the measurement value of the ambient temperature sensor (13b), the
temperature of air in the entire indoor space (500) becomes
excessively low or high. This results in that the measurement value
(Tm1) of the suction air temperature sensor (61) becomes
excessively low or high. Thus, if the measurement value (Tm1) of
the suction air temperature sensor (61) is excessively low or high,
a determination can be made that the wireless temperature sensor
unit (13) is in an abnormal condition.
[0056] If the condition (C) is satisfied, a determination can be
made that the wireless temperature sensor unit (13) is in an
abnormal condition for the following reason. Specifically, for
example, if the wireless temperature sensor unit (13) cannot
transmit a signal due to a power shortage, the receiver unit (63)
cannot receive a signal from the wireless temperature sensor unit
(13). In addition, moving the wireless temperature sensor unit (13)
out of the room by mistake, for example, may prevent a signal from
the wireless temperature sensor unit (13) from reaching the
receiver unit (63). For these reasons, if the receiver unit (63)
has received no signal from the wireless temperature sensor unit
(13), a determination can be made that the wireless temperature
sensor unit (13) is in an abnormal condition.
[0057] As shown in FIG. 5, if all of the following three conditions
(D) to (F) are satisfied while the wireless temperature sensor unit
(13) is in an abnormal condition, the abnormal condition
determining section (63b) determines that the wireless temperature
sensor unit (13) is in a normal condition. Specifically, the
condition (D) indicates a condition where the absolute value of the
difference between the measurement value (Tm1) of the suction air
temperature sensor (61) and the measurement value (Tm2) of the
ambient temperature sensor (13b) is less than the predetermined
temperature difference threshold (.DELTA.Tth). The condition (E)
indicates a condition where the measurement value (Tm1) of the
suction air temperature sensor (61) is greater than or equal to a
predetermined third temperature threshold (Tth3) and less than or
equal to a predetermined fourth temperature threshold (Tth4).
However, the third temperature threshold (Tth3) is slightly greater
than the first temperature threshold (Tth1) and less than the
second temperature threshold (Tth2). The fourth temperature
threshold (Tth4) is slightly less than the second temperature
threshold (Tth2) and greater than the third temperature threshold
(Tth1<Tth3 Tth4<Tth2). The condition (F) indicates a
condition where the receiver unit (63) has received a signal from
the wireless temperature sensor unit (13). On the other hand, if at
least one of the conditions (D) to (F) is not satisfied, the
abnormal condition determining section (63b) determines that the
wireless temperature sensor unit (13) is still in an abnormal
condition.
Index Setting Section
[0058] The index setting section (63c) is configured to generate a
signal serving as an index of indoor temperature, based on the
measurement value (Tm2) of the ambient temperature sensor (13b) and
the measurement value (Tm1) of the suction air temperature sensor
(61). The index setting section (63c) determines either the
measurement value (Tm1) of the suction air temperature sensor (61)
or the measurement value (Tm2) of the ambient temperature sensor
(13b) to be a temperature index value, based on the result
determined by the abnormal condition determining section (63b).
Specifically, while the abnormal condition determining section
(63b) determines that the wireless temperature sensor unit (13) is
in an abnormal condition, the index setting section (63c)
determines the measurement value (Tm1) of the suction air
temperature sensor (61) to be the temperature index value. On the
other hand, while the abnormal condition determining section (63b)
determines that the wireless temperature sensor unit (13) is not in
an abnormal condition, the index setting section (63c) determines
the measurement value (Tm2) of the ambient temperature sensor (13b)
to be the temperature index value. Note that even while the
abnormal condition determining section (63b) determines that the
wireless temperature sensor unit (13) is not in an abnormal
condition, the index setting section (63c) may determine the
measurement value (Tm1) of the suction air temperature sensor (61)
to be the temperature index value in some cases.
Indoor Controller
[0059] The indoor controller (66) is separate from the receiver
unit (63). The indoor controller (66) controls the rotational speed
of the indoor fan (27), the orientations of the airflow direction
adjusting flaps (51), and other elements, based on the measurement
value (Tm1) of the suction air temperature sensor (61) or the
measurement value (Tm2) of the ambient temperature sensor (13b)
which has been transmitted from the receiver unit (63).
[0060] The indoor controller (66) includes the common input
connector (66a) having the same shape as the input connector (63d).
The common input connector (66a) is selectively connectable to the
control signal line (64) and the sensor signal line (62). The
common input connector (66a) is configured as, for example, a
connector identical to the connector constituting the input
connector (63d). If none of the wireless temperature sensor unit
(13) and the receiver unit (63) is provided, the sensor signal line
(62) of the suction air temperature sensor (61) is connected to the
common input connector (66a) as indicated by the chain
double-dashed line shown in FIG. 4. In this state, the signal of
the measurement value (Tm1) of the suction air temperature sensor
(61) is directly fed to the indoor controller (66).
[0061] As shown in FIG. 4, the indoor controller (66) is connected
to the outdoor controller (28) through a connection signal line
(67). The indoor controller (66) is configured to transmit, to the
outdoor controller (28), a signal of the temperature index value
transmitted from the receiver unit (63).
[0062] The outdoor controller (28) controls the rotational speed of
the compressor (21) based on the signal of the temperature index
value received from the indoor controller (66), and performs other
suitable operations. For example, during a cooling operation, if
the temperature index value is higher than a target temperature,
the outdoor controller (28) increases the rotational speed of the
compressor (21), whereas if the temperature index value is lower
than the target temperature, the outdoor controller (28) reduces
the rotational speed of the compressor (21). For example, during a
heating operation, if the temperature index value is lower than a
target temperature, the outdoor controller (28) increases the
rotational speed of the compressor (21), whereas if the temperature
index value is higher than the target temperature, the outdoor
controller (28) reduces the rotational speed of the compressor
(21).
[0063] The indoor controller (66) may be integrated with the
receiver unit (63). The indoor controller (66) and the outdoor
controller (28) constitute a controller.
Operation
[0064] How the air-conditioning device (10) operates will now be
described below. If a heating operation or a cooling operation is
to be performed, the compressor (21), the outdoor fan (24), and the
indoor fan (27) are driven. In this manner, the refrigerant circuit
(20) allows a refrigerant to circulate therethrough to perform a
vapor compression refrigeration cycle. Thus, the cooling operation,
the heating operation, or any other operation is performed. In this
case, during the cooling operation, switching the four-way
switching valve (22) allows the outdoor heat exchanger (23) to
function as a radiator (condenser), and allows the indoor heat
exchanger (26) to function as an evaporator. On the other hand,
during the heating operation, switching the four-way switching
valve (22) allows the indoor heat exchanger (26) to function as a
radiator (condenser), and allows the outdoor heat exchanger (23) to
function as an evaporator.
[0065] Here, during operation of the indoor unit (12), rotation of
the indoor fan (27) allows air in the indoor space (500) to flow
through the inlet opening (33) into the casing (30). The air that
has flowed into the casing (30) is drawn into the indoor fan (27),
and expelled into the indoor heat exchanger (26). The air expelled
through the indoor fan (27) is cooled or heated while passing
through the indoor heat exchanger (26), and is expelled through the
four main outlet openings (34) and the four auxiliary outlet
opening (35) into the indoor space (500).
[0066] In the indoor unit (12) performing a cooling operation, the
indoor heat exchanger (26) functions as an evaporator to cool the
air passing through the indoor heat exchanger (26). On the other
hand, in the indoor unit (12) performing a heating operation, the
indoor heat exchanger (26) functions as a condenser to heat the air
passing through the indoor heat exchanger (26).
[0067] The indoor unit (12) is configured to expel conditioned air
into the indoor space (500) such that the temperature of air in the
indoor space (500) is equal to a predetermined target temperature.
Here, the indoor controller (66) controls components of the indoor
unit (12) based on the temperature index value set by the index
setting section (63c). For example, the indoor controller (66)
controls the rotational speed of the indoor fan (27) to control the
flow rate of conditioned air expelled into the indoor space (500).
The indoor controller (66) individually controls the positions of
the four airflow direction adjusting flaps (51) to control the
direction in which the conditioned air is expelled.
[0068] The outdoor controller (28) controls components of the
outdoor unit (11) based on the temperature index value set by the
index setting section (63c). The outdoor controller (28) controls,
for example, the rotational speed of the compressor (21) to
regulate the heating or cooling capacity of the air-conditioning
device (10). The outdoor controller (28) further controls the
rotational speed of the outdoor fan (24), switching of the four-way
switching valve (22), the degree of opening of the expansion valve
(25), and other elements.
[0069] During the heating operation, a downward blowing operation
in which conditioned warm air is blown substantially downward, a
horizontal blowing operation in which conditioned warm air is blown
substantially horizontally, or any other operation is performed. On
the other hand, during the cooling operation, a swinging operation
in which conditioned air having a relatively low temperature is
blown while the airflow direction adjusting flaps (51) are swung
substantially between the horizontal direction and the downward
direction, a horizontal blowing operation in which conditioned air
having a relatively low temperature is blown substantially
horizontally, or any other operation is performed.
Advantages of Embodiment
[0070] In the air-conditioning device (10) of this embodiment, if
the wireless temperature sensor unit (13) that can be installed at
an optional location in the indoor space (500) is not in an
abnormal condition, the measurement value (Tm2) of the ambient
temperature sensor (13b) of the wireless temperature sensor unit
(13) is used to control operation of the air-conditioning device
(10). This allows air at the optional location in the indoor space
(500) to be conditioned. On the other hand, if the wireless
temperature sensor unit (13) is in an abnormal condition, not the
measurement value (Tm2) of the ambient temperature sensor (13b) but
the measurement value (Tm1) of the suction air temperature sensor
(61) of the indoor unit (12) is used to control the operation of
the air-conditioning device (10). This allows air in the entire
indoor space (500) to be appropriately conditioned even if the
wireless temperature sensor unit (13) is in the abnormal
condition.
[0071] If the wireless temperature sensor unit (13) is not in an
abnormal condition, the measurement value (Tm2) of the ambient
temperature sensor (13b) of the wireless temperature sensor unit
(13) that is highly likely to be arranged near a person in the room
is used to control the operation of the air-conditioning device
(10). This can improve the comfort of the person in the room.
[0072] If the measurement value (Tm1) of the suction air
temperature sensor (61) is significantly different from the
measurement value (Tm2) of the ambient temperature sensor (13b), a
determination is made that the wireless temperature sensor unit
(13) is in an abnormal condition, and the measurement value (Tm1)
of the suction air temperature sensor (61) is thus used to control
the operation of the air-conditioning device (10). This allows air
in the entire indoor space (500) to be more appropriately
conditioned.
[0073] If the measurement value (Tm1) of the suction air
temperature sensor (61) is excessively low or high, a determination
is made that the wireless temperature sensor unit (13) is in an
abnormal condition, and the measurement value (Tm1) of the suction
air temperature sensor (61) is thus used to control the operation
of the air-conditioning device (10). This allows air in the entire
indoor space (500) to be more appropriately conditioned, and can
prevent the air-conditioning device (10) from being broken.
[0074] On the other hand, if the receiving section (63a) has not
received a signal from the wireless temperature sensor unit (13)
yet, a determination is made that the wireless temperature sensor
unit (13) is in an abnormal condition, and the measurement value
(Tm1) of the suction air temperature sensor (61) is thus used to
control the operation of the air-conditioning device (10). This
allows air in the entire indoor space (500) to be more
appropriately conditioned.
Variation of Embodiment
[0075] A variation of the embodiment will now be described. In this
variation, a receiving section (63a) and other suitable components
are provided for not a receiver unit (63) but a remote control unit
for an air-conditioning device (10).
[0076] Specifically, in some cases, the air-conditioning device
(10) includes a remote control unit (not shown) connected to an
indoor unit (12) through a lead. In such a case, the receiving
section (63a) may be provided for the remote control unit. In
addition to the receiving section (63a), either or both of an
abnormal condition determining section (63b) and an index setting
section (63c) may be provided for the remote control unit.
Other Embodiments
[0077] In the foregoing embodiment, the abnormal condition
determining section (63b) and the index setting section (63c) are
provided for the receiver unit (63). However, the abnormal
condition determining section (63b) and the index setting section
(63c) may be provided for, for example, the indoor controller (66).
In this case, the measurement value (Tm1) of the suction air
temperature sensor (61) may be transferred through the receiver
unit (63) to the indoor controller (66), or may be directly fed to
the indoor controller (66).
[0078] The receiving section (63a) may be provided for the indoor
controller (66). Additionally, the abnormal condition determining
section (63b) and the index setting section (63c) may be provided
for the indoor controller (66). In this case, a signal transmitted
from the wireless temperature sensor unit (13) is received by the
indoor controller (66).
[0079] In the foregoing embodiment, the air-conditioning device
(10) includes only one indoor unit (12). However, the
air-conditioning device (10) may include two or more indoor units
(12).
[0080] In the foregoing embodiment, not only the main outlet
openings (34) but also the auxiliary outlet openings (35) are
provided. However, the auxiliary outlet openings (35) do not have
to be provided.
[0081] In the foregoing embodiment, the indoor unit (12) is
configured to expel conditioned air in four directions. However,
the indoor unit (12) may be configured to expel conditioned air,
for example, in one or two directions.
[0082] The indoor unit (12) may be not a ceiling-embedded indoor
unit embedded in the opening of the ceiling (501), but a
ceiling-hanging indoor unit having the casing (30) hung from the
ceiling (501), a wall-mounted indoor unit, or a floor-mounted
indoor unit.
INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY
[0083] As can be seen from the foregoing description, the present
invention is useful for an air-conditioning device.
DESCRIPTION OF REFERENCE CHARACTERS
[0084] 10 Air-Conditioning Device [0085] 12 Indoor Unit [0086] 13
Wireless Temperature Sensor Unit [0087] 13b Ambient Temperature
Sensor [0088] 13c Transmitter [0089] 28 Outdoor Controller
(Controller) [0090] 61 Suction Air Temperature Sensor [0091] 63
Receiver Unit [0092] 63a Receiving Section [0093] 63b Abnormal
Condition Determining Section [0094] 63c Index Setting Section
[0095] 66 Indoor Controller (Controller) [0096] 500 Indoor
Space
* * * * *